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Amsterdam, Netherlands

Perhaps more than any other European city, the Dutch capital is associated with a laidback and liberal lifestyle. Holidaymakers taking flights to Amsterdam (AMS) come to experience the city’s restaurants, lounges and cafes. While there’s no doubt that the culturally diverse population and vibrant entertainment scene are part of the draw, there’s more to this city than meets the eye.

In Amsterdam you’ll discover vast green parks, a buzzing cultural scene and plenty of foodie finds, not to mention some of the most notable museums in the world, including the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum. Culture vultures would be advised to buy a museumjaarkaart (The Museum Card), which gets you free or discounted entry to the city’s museums. Repeat visitors will be pleased to hear it is valid for a year.

Most of the action here is concentrated in the Old Centre, which is one of the most historic city centres in Europe, dating back to medieval times. In spite of this, the area is packed with plenty of modern attractions. Dam Square is a tourist hotspot, and a great base for exploring the surrounding shops, cafes and restaurants.

At night the city is family-friendly, and makes for a great holiday with children. When you’re not playing with them in the park, they’ll be delighted with a boat ride on the canal or a cycle around town.

For a touch of luxury, the picturesque Canal Ring is a Unesco World Heritage Site populated by lovely boutique hotels and independent designer outlets. During the warmer months, there’s nothing nicer than strolling alongside the centuries-old canals and stopping to snack and people watch at one of the waterside cafes.

What to do in Amsterdam

Shop at Noordermarkt

One of the best ways to soak up the atmosphere of any big city is to explore its markets. Amsterdam is no exception, from the big and bustling Waterlooplein flea market to the famous Albert Cuypmarkt. For the most authentic experience, spend a Saturday morning mixing with the locals at the Noordermarkt in the Jordaan neighbourhood, which specialises in organic produce.

Enjoy park life

Amsterdam’s parks are a huge draw for locals and tourists. On sunny days you'll find people walking, jogging and picnicking among the tulips. It’s hard to choose a favourite park in Amsterdam, but Vondelpark, Amstelpark and Westerpark are very popular. Make sure you visit the cultural centre Vondel CS when you visit Vondelpark.

Vondel CS
Vondelpark 3
1071 AA

Visit Amsterdam's museums

Two of Amsterdam’s best museums – Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk – were closed for nearly a decade for renovations. Today, both are back and better than before. Don’t miss the Stedelijk’s design booth or the Rijksmuseum’s famous Rembrandt, Night Watch, which is still in its original location at the heart of the museum.

Learn about Van Gogh and Anne Frank

The Van Gogh Museum is a must-see for visitors to the city, which houses the largest collection of paintings by the legendary artist. It’s not the only museum in the city to add to your itinerary, though – the Anne Frank House, where the young diarist hid during the Second World War, is also fascinating.

Go biking

Make like the locals, skip the cabs and explore the city by bike. There are loads of rentals, but if you really want to blend in, try the two-wheelers at Bike City, an eco-friendly company with logo-free bikes. For more variety, Damstraat Rent A Bike offers everything from children’s bicycles to tandems.

Where to eat in Amsterdam

Yamazato (Japanese)

Headed up by pioneering Chef Akira Oshima, Yamazato is the only Michelin-starred Asian restaurant in the Netherlands. It’s famous for having more than 50 authentic Japanese dishes on the menu, which change depending on what local ingredients are in season. The service is excellent and the prices won’t break the bank.

De Kas (Mediterranean)

A lot of Amsterdam’s quirkiest finds are housed in buildings that used to be something else, and De Kas, a former greenhouse, is no different. This restaurant is perfect for adventurous, health-conscious food lovers as the dishes change daily, depending on what’s been harvested from the organic garden.

Ron Gastrobar Amsterdam (Mediterranean)

Ron Blaauw’s eponymous three Michelin-starred restaurant was the stuff of Amsterdam legend, and his gastropub is just as popular. There’s a lively atmosphere, the Mediterranean-influenced cuisine is impeccably cooked – try the wagyu burger with patatas bravas – and the prices are pretty reasonable too.

Restaurant Azmarino (East African)

If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten track, head for Restaurant Azmarino. This hidden gem, with its colourful interior and chalkboard signs, serves up cheap but delicious East African cuisine such as stews and plenty of injera, a traditional bread. A great budget-friendly option.

Bistro des Alpes (International)

This stylish yet cosy little restaurant is a hidden gem off the tourist track. You’ll have to book ahead, but it’s worth it. This is European comfort food at its best – think gooey cheese fondue with crusty bread or a rich potato gratin. The prices are reasonable and there’s a good children’s menu too.

Sawaddee Ka (Thai)

For something cheap and cheerful (but no less tasty), locals rely on this welcoming Thai restaurant in Leidseplein. Expect the usual suspects – stir-fries, noodles and creamy curries – served in generous portions. It’s perfect for a quick bite to refuel while you’re exploring the buzzy neighbourhood.

Places to stay in Amsterdam

Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Vondelpark

This budget hotel makes a great base if you want to stay close to the action at hip hangout Vondelpark. This colourful hostel is also one of the largest in Europe – perfect for meeting fellow travellers. It’s uniquely located right in the middle of the park, and you can rent bikes for exploring.

Hotel 717

For Old World glamour with all the mod cons, head to the stylish Hotel 717. Located in a converted merchant’s house, the rooms, each named after famous authors, artists or composers, are spacious, the rates are reasonable and it’s just a short bike ride from the lively city centre.

Sir Albert

Housed in a former diamond factory, Sir Albert is a relatively new addition to Amsterdam’s hotel scene. The rooms are cosy, and the library is a lovely spot to while away an afternoon. Izakaya is the on-site restaurant, which serves tasty Japanese cuisine.

Hotel Ambassade

If you want a canal-side hotel in Amsterdam, but don’t want to push the boat out, Ambassade is a good choice. It’s a stylish, mid-range hotel set in a 17th century townhouse in a quiet neighbourhood, with all the fun of the city a short walk away. Check out the impressive library, which boasts a huge collection of first editions.

Conservatorium

This stylish hotel is a great option if you want to be close to Amsterdam’s museum trail. In addition to its handy location in Van Baerlestraat, the 19th century building is also home to two spots popular with the trendier locals – a relaxing lobby lounge and chic Spanish restaurant Tunes.

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